MPV Commentary

This discourse is a continuation of Jesus' teaching in the previous chapter. The figure of the shepherd and sheep was familiar to the Jewish audience (Jer 23:1-40; Eze 34:1-31; Zec 11:1-17).

The Good Shepherd.

Jesus begins by describing the characteristics of a true shepherd, using the example of a sheep that quickly hears its shepherd's voice and follows no one else. The sheep depends entirely on the shepherd for help and cannot help itself (Luther in Stier).

1-2. He who enters not through the door is not a legitimate shepherd. This refers to those who assume spiritual leadership without a true commission from God.

2. The one who enters by the door is the true shepherd, recognized by God as such.

3. To him the gatekeeper opens, giving right of free access to the sheep. This is because the sheep belong to God, and He has given them this privilege.

4-5. The sheep hear his voice and follow him, for they know his voice. This is a direct reference to Jesus' own role as the Good Shepherd, who will lead His people into eternal life (John 14:6).

7-10. I am the door of the sheep, giving access to all blessed privileges. All those who came before me were false prophets, but my sheep did not listen to them because they had a divinely taught instinct that preserved them from seducers.

9. By me if any man enters will be saved and find pasture. This is the great object of Jesus' pastoral office: to save His people and provide for their spiritual nourishment.

10. I have come that they might have life, and have it more abundantly. This claim is an echo of all Jesus' teaching, and He must either be a blasphemer or truly God with us.

11-12. I am the good shepherd who gives his life for the sheep. This is not just a reference to literal shepherds who risk their lives for their flocks, but also points to Jesus' willing surrender of His own life to save His people from destruction.

12. An hireling has no concern for the sheep because they are not his property. In contrast, Jesus has a peculiar relation to the sheep, just like His Father's, as the great Proprietor and Lord of the flock.

13-14. The good shepherd knows his sheep and is aware of any potential threats to them. This knowledge is part of what makes Him the good shepherd who will lead His people safely into eternal life.